Home minister warns police over fascist links

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed on Saturday warned of tougher action against police personnel who maintain contact with the fallen fascist forces, saying those involved in sedition could face legal action, including treason cases.

“Anyone involved in sedition will face action. The government will have to take a tough stance to maintain peace and order in the state and among the people,” he said while speaking as chief guest at the medal presentation ceremony of Police Week 2026 at Rajarbagh Police Lines in Dhaka.

Salahuddin alleged that some police personnel were secretly assisting fascist forces by sharing information or through other means, while others were neglecting their field-level responsibilities.

“Action is being taken gradually. At the same time, police personnel are being given opportunities to correct themselves,” he said.

He instructed police to use intelligence information to bring associates of the banned Awami League under the law and announced rewards for personnel who help arrest them.

Salahuddin said the government wanted a people-friendly police force and urged officers and members to perform their duties with honesty, dedication and sincerity.

He said the strength of the police force had been increased and would continue to be expanded given its role in maintaining internal security, peace and order and the rule of law.

Describing police as the “visible face of the state”, he said citizens turn to them first when they face crime or feel insecure.

“We want to build a police force that is modern in terms of efficiency and professionalism, technologically capable, humane in behaviour, firm in law enforcement, impartial in carrying out its duties, and a symbol of public trust and confidence,” he said. 

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Referring to declining public confidence in the police, the minister said the government had taken steps over the past few months to restore the force’s image and rebuild trust through institutional, legislative and administrative measures.

At the ceremony, PPM and BPM medals were presented to 98 police personnel. The government conferred four categories of awards – BPM, BPM-Service, PPM and PPM-Service – on 92 personnel for bravery, outstanding service and contributions to solving major criminal cases.

Inspector General of Police Md Ali Hossain Fakir received the BPM for 2025. Several senior police officials also received BPM-Service and PPM-Service awards.

IGP Md Ali Hossain Fakir chaired the programme. Senior Home Secretary Manzur Morshed Chowdhury attended as special guest, while Additional IGP (Crime and Operations) Khondoker Rafiqul Islam delivered the welcome address.